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Pros and cons of using workout machines for exercise
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Posted On :
Aug-22-2011
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Article Word Count :
450
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People often ask us about whether or not machines are good to use for exercise. Our opinion is that a varied workout routine is best, but machines do have certain advantages. They also have certain drawbacks. Read more about this discussion of the pros and cons of using machines to workout
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With so much conflicting information out there about fitness and exercise, it’s no wonder that clients often want advice about the effectiveness of machines as a workout tool.
The fact is that any type of exercise equipment has benefits and drawbacks that the others may not. Ultimately a good workout regimen will use a variety of exercises and equipment in order to produce “muscle confusion” which is a core element of fitness boot camps. With that said, let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of working out with machines.
Pros
- Hands down machines are the safest exercise tool, as they only allow you to move in a certain range of motion (ROM), thereby limiting the chances you will hurt yourself.
- There are many different types of machines, each designed to work different muscle groups. If you workout at a gym you likely have lots to choose from, but if you workout from home and only have one, this can get old quickly.
- Within each machine, there may be several variations of that exercise that you can perform to work muscles differently.
- Instructions – machines often have clear instructions with photos showing you the preferred method for operating the equipment to avoid injury.
Cons
- This same range of motion limitation also can result in neglecting the muscle fibers that help with stabilization.
- Machines generally do not allow you to use each side of your body independently. This means that your stronger side will mask the weaker side and your weaker side will never catch up to your stronger side.
- Repetition & Boredom – There is a reason that people often joke about having clothes hanging from a piece of workout equipment in their home. In fact, one of the biggest factors that brings people to our fitness boot camps is that after a certain point, machines can only challenge you so much in fitness.
Other considerations
Generally, using a machine means you can lift more weight than with free weights because of the limited range of motion. That means for people who work out from home it can be great if for no other reason than safety.
However you will somewhat limited in what you can do, thus making it even more important to change exercises and vary your routine. Free weights are a great alternative as long as you don’t try to do too much or at least have a spotter. But whatever method you choose, focus on varying your exercise as much as possible to achieve the best possible results. You’ll be glad you did.
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Article Source :
http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Pros and cons of using workout machines for exercise_75591.aspx
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Author Resource :
Workout machines are great, but people looking to get in serious shape and have more fun are trying outdoor exercise programs like our fitness boot camps. Find out more about how our personal trainers can whip you into shape by trying a class for free.
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Keywords :
fitness bootcamp, personal trainer, fitness services, personal trainers, outdoor exercise programs,
Category :
Health and Fitness
:
Health and Fitness
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